<p>Here is my story, on my dad's side of the family my grandfather was Filipino, his wife my grandmother is African American. On my mom's side my grandfather is Irish and my grandmother is half Thai/Chinese. My surname is a Filipino one. Which box would I check? I would like to check the African American box to increase my odds but no one can tell unless they see my Dad etc. What are my options? I live in an upper middle class neighborhood with excellent schools etc. I am not disadvantaged. Please advise. Thank you.</p>
<p>Your situation calls out for the "other" box!</p>
<p>Merely being African American is NOT a admissions advantage. At our local high school, Afr-Am kids who come from low socio-economic situations with a single parent, top 10%and decent test scores are highly sought after by selective colleges. Afr-Am kids from intact middle class families didn't get a boost at all.</p>
<p>Your accomplishments will be put into the context of the advantages available to you when it comes to college admissions.</p>